1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1971 Renault 15
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 15. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 15 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1971 Renault 15. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 15.
Let's talk about torque, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 15. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 15.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1971 Renault 15 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | 15 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2440 mm |
